Finding a good hair stylist can be a daunting task. I’ve been known to avoid getting my haircut for months on end, in fear of walking out of the salon feeling worse than when I walked in (split ends and all).
One of the best haircuts I’ve ever received was in New York City, but I haven’t been able to convince myself that a a great haircut is a good enough excuse to fly to my favourite place on earth. What’s the next best thing? A New York City stylist in Vancouver.
When I was given the opportunity to experience Kore Salon, and a cut by NYC master stylist, Mark McLeod, I jumped at the chance. Mark is living the bi-coastal life (and dream of many); in addition to working at Kore, he makes the trek ever six weeks to the big apple, where he works as a master stylist, educator, and manager at Arrojo Studio in SoHo (owned by Nick Arrojo of What Not to Wear).
Located in the Sinclair Centre in downtown Vancouver, Kore Salon is an intimate space with arched windows, vintage furniture instead of hairdressing tables, and high ceilings.
Mark greeted me with a warm smile and enthusiastic energy. Among the hum of hair dryers and salon chatter, we agreed on a plan of attack for my stressed tresses, and talked about Fall 2012 hair trends, Vancouver weather, styling tips, and our mutual love of New York.
What struck me the most about Mark was his passion for styling, and his willingness to teach me as much as possible about my new ‘do. He constantly narrated what he was doing, why he was doing it, and how I could achieve the same results at home. I asked dozens of questions, listening intently and taking mental notes. I learned the ins-and-outs of a blow drying, how to maximize volume, what hairstyle looks best on me, and what products are ideal for my hair type.
But my crash course in Hair Styling 101 didn’t end there. When Mark finished cutting and drying my hair, he looked at me and said “There you go! Now, lets mess it up.” He showed me to get the perfect beach waves, the best way to curl my hair, and quick updos for when I’m running short on time. When I told him I was interested in eventually getting pink ombré highlights, he introduced me to Kevin Murphy Color Bug Temporary Hair Shadow, and fulfilled my dreams of pink locks.
I walked out the salon feeling fantastic; I was tickled pink over my new hairstyle, and felt confident that I could duplicate the various styles at home. I felt like letting my hair down..or keeping it up, because Mark taught me that too.
The Finished Product: Mark and Kendra. Haircut Courtesy of KORE
UPDATE: Mark has moved to Space Salon in Cambie Village. To book an appointment, call 604.681.1444.
Love the sounds of pink ombre highlights—what fun!!!
awesome review! thanks darling!